Lot 3976
Ireland. 'Gunmoney' Halfcrown, 1689. S.6579L. James II. Large size. 1689 March. Obverse portrait of King James II. IACOBVS II DEI GRATIA. Reverse, crown and crossed sceptres with I R at sides. Practically mint state, and nicely struck for this crudely made issue. NGC graded MS-61.
* Having fled from England to France, James eventually landed in Ireland in March 1689 to continue the struggle to win back his crown. His daughter and son-in-law (William and Mary) were destined to occupy the English throne, but James was determined to fight on without sufficient funds to pay his troops. He came up with a plan to mint a base metal coinage, bearing his portrait, which could be exchanged for silver coins after the war was won. These coins were made from brass, other available scrap metal, bells and old cannon. Originally called 'brass money' the coins were later known as 'Gunmoney.' This is an exceptional example.
Estimated Value $500 - 600.
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| Realized $734 |
